DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF ANTIBACTERIAL HERBAL LOTION USING ANNONA SQUAMOSA LINN. LEAVES AQUEOUS EXTRACT

The growing demand for natural excipients has catalysed a shift from synthetic sources toward botanical antioxidants and antimicrobial agents. This study evaluates the antioxidant and antimicrobial effectiveness of aqueous extracts from Annona squamosa Linn. leaves typically considered agro-waste. The aqueous foliar extract underwent comprehensive phytochemical screening, quantification of total phenolic and alkaloid content, and in-vitro antibacterial assessment using the agar well diffusion method. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of glycosides, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and phenols, correlating with notable antioxidant activity. Quantitative assays demonstrated substantial phenolic and alkaloid concentrations, reinforcing the extract’s bioactive potential. Antimicrobial testing against key bacterial strains Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus highlighted pronounced inhibitory effects, confirming its broad-spectrum antibacterial efficacy. Building on these findings, an herbal lotion was formulated incorporating the extract alongside carefully selected excipients to enhance dermal delivery and stability. The formulation was subjected to rigorous physicochemical evaluation: pH, viscosity, and spread ability measurements confirmed its compatibility with skin application. Further stability studies under varied environmental conditions demonstrated the lotion’s resilience and shelf-life potential. In-vitro antibacterial assays using prevalent cutaneous pathogens verified the formulation’s efficacy in a cosmetic vehicle. Additionally, dermal irritation testing on suitable models confirmed its safety and non-sensitizing nature for topical use. In summary, this work establishes Annona squamosa leaf extract as a potent natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent, successfully incorporated into a stable, safe, and efficacious topical lotion. These findings support the valorization of plant-based waste materials and advance the development of sustainable, bioactive skincare products.